{"id":12324,"date":"2015-08-13T11:00:50","date_gmt":"2015-08-13T16:00:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getflywheel.com\/?p=12324"},"modified":"2024-09-10T14:25:49","modified_gmt":"2024-09-10T19:25:49","slug":"seven-things-i-wish-i-knew-about-freelancing-before-starting","status":"publish","type":"resource","link":"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/case-studies\/resources\/seven-things-i-wish-i-knew-about-freelancing-before-starting\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Things To Know About Freelancing Before Starting"},"content":{"rendered":"

Getting started as a freelancer isn\u2019t all unicorns and rainbows, but it\u2019s also not all lemons and red tape. Many new freelancers have a general sense that “people make a living doing this,” and realize if others can do it, they can probably figure it out as well. <\/span><\/p>\n

Several years into freelancing, it becomes clear that while there\u2019s always more to learn, significant progress can be made. With that in mind, here are a few key lessons many freelancers wish they would have known about earlier in their freelancing journeys.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"about-freelancing-computer\"<\/p>\n

1. Leave some margin<\/h3>\n

Leaving margin is crucial for a number of reasons. Think of it as a buffer for stability and sanity. Financial goals should be set high enough to allow for breathing room, with extra set aside for slower periods. In terms of workload, it\u2019s important not to take on too much at once.<\/p>\n

Projects often take longer than expected, so building in time buffers is essential. This approach not only reduces stress but may even allow for early delivery. The same goes for daily schedules, which should include breaks and downtime to ensure a balanced work-life routine.<\/p>\n

2. Have a \u201cdesk day\u201d each week<\/h3>\n

A \u201cdesk day\u201d is a designated time for administrative tasks that accumulate throughout the week. Whether it\u2019s invoicing, tracking expenses, or catching up on mail, setting aside a day to handle these tasks can prevent them from becoming overwhelming.<\/p>\n

For many freelancers, Friday is a good day to wrap up loose ends and prepare for the upcoming week.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

3. Know the right rates<\/h3>\n

Many freelancers start out undervaluing their services. It\u2019s important to not only understand what rates are typical but also to be comfortable charging higher rates, even as a beginner.<\/p>\n

Rates should reflect the value provided, and it’s often necessary to quote prices that might feel slightly uncomfortable at first.<\/p>\n

4. Find the right community<\/h3>\n

Finding the right community can be a game-changer for a freelancer. Having a supportive group of peers, whether through online forums, social media groups, or other networks,allows you to regularly connect with fellow freelancers.\u00a0 Tjhis in turn offers opportunities for advice, support, and growth.<\/p>\n

It can take time to find the right community, but once established, it becomes an invaluable resource.<\/p>\n

5. Don\u2019t let emotions take over<\/h3>\n

When you\u2019re working for yourself, you\u2019ll feel soaring highs and crushing lows. There\u2019s anxiety, confusion, and discomfort dealing with difficult clients. You have to get used to rejection. You have to learn how to sell and how to negotiate. It\u2019s absolutely necessary that you not let your days be ruled by your emotions. <\/span><\/p>\n

Expect a roller coaster and stay focused on what needs to be done, regardless of feelings.<\/p>\n

6. Recognize fear in disguise<\/h3>\n

One of the biggest emotions that can come into play as a freelancer is fear. Fear often shows up in subtle ways, such as perfectionism or procrastination. If there’s a tendency to delay starting something in order to \u201clearn more\u201d or make it \u201cperfect,\u201d it might be worth reflecting on whether fear is the real obstacle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"about-freelancing-typing\"<\/p>\n

7. Freelancing is a numbers game<\/h3>\n

Success in freelancing is about effort and persistence. More pitches lead to more clients, which leads to more experience and insight into the best ways to earn.<\/p>\n

Over time, freelancers refine their approach and discover the most fulfilling and profitable projects.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s not all!<\/h3>\n
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These are just a few of the many lessons that contribute to freelancing success. Continuously evaluating what works and making necessary adjustments will help ensure that the freelance business aligns with personal goals and aspirations.<\/p>\n

Want to learn more? Find out how you can create recurring revenue<\/a> as a freelancer with WP Engine<\/a> or find additional helpful articles in our Resource Center<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Getting started as a freelancer isn\u2019t all unicorns and rainbows, but it\u2019s also not all lemons and red tape. Many new freelancers have a general sense that “people make a living doing this,” and realize if others can do it, they can probably figure it out as well. Several years into freelancing, it becomes clear…<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":153478,"template":"","resource-topic":[908,904],"resource-role":[897],"resource-type":[916],"class_list":["post-12324","resource","type-resource","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n7 Things To Know About Freelancing Before Starting<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Gain valuable insights for navigating the competitive world of digital marketing and learn essential tips to succeed in the freelance world.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"7 Things To Know About Freelancing Before Starting\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Gain valuable insights for navigating the competitive world of digital marketing and learn essential tips to succeed in the 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